Tropical Storm Chantal formed earlier this morning off the southeastern U.S. coast and is forecasted to track northward toward the Carolinas in the coming days, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (HCOHSEM) is actively monitoring the storm’s progress and will continue to provide updates throughout the 2025 hurricane season.
Preparedness Starts at Home
HCOHSEM reminds residents that the best way to build a resilient community is by preparing now and encouraging friends and neighbors to do the same.
Build an Emergency Kit
Emergency supply kits should contain enough non-perishable food and water for seven days. Other essential items include:
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Baby care items
- Pet supplies, such as food, water, leashes, medications, and vaccination records
A full checklist is available on the ReadyHarris website under the “Get Prepared” tab.
Create an Evacuation Plan
Residents in evacuation zones should know their routes and follow local instructions. To check if your home is in an evacuation zone, visit the Zip Zone Evacuation Map.
Those who may need extra help during an evacuation — including medically fragile individuals and those needing transportation assistance — should register with the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) online or by calling 2-1-1.
HCOHSEM also encourages homeowners, renters, and business owners to obtain flood insurance and review their existing policies to ensure they are up to date.
Stay Informed During Hurricane Season
Stay weather aware by signing up for emergency alerts at www.readyharris.org and texting GULF2025 to 888777 for hurricane updates.
Residents can also follow HCOHSEM on social media and subscribe to Ready Harris Alerts and Ready Harris Accessible Alerts for timely information before, during, and after a storm.
For more on hurricane safety, read our guide and stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.